Dr. Linda Hutcheon’s remarkable literary and academic career will be recognized when she is awarded an honorary degree by Brandon University (BU) at Spring Convocation on Friday, June 1.

Dr. Hutcheon will be conferred with an honorary Doctor of Literature (honoris causa) during the afternoon ceremony, which will begin at 2:30 p.m., at BU’s Healthy Living Centre.

Dr. Linda Hutcheon will receive an honorary Doctor of Literature degree at Brandon University’s Spring Convocation on Friday, June 1.

A specialist in postmodernist culture and in critical theory, Dr. Hutcheon holds the rank of University Professor Emeritus of English and Comparative Literature at the University of Toronto. She was named an Officer of the Order of Canada in 2010.

“Through her writing, her research, and her critical work, Dr. Hutcheon has been a tremendous contributor to the field of literature in Canada,” said Dr. Steven Robinson, BU’s Interim President and Vice-Chancellor. “Dr. Hutcheon also exemplifies the belief that knowledge is most valuable when it is shared. She has dedicated considerable time and energy throughout her academic career to helping graduate and postgraduate students realize their greatest potential.”

Dr. Hutcheon began publishing in the field of Canadian literature early in her teaching career at Seneca College and McMaster University, writing two books on Canadian culture. Later, her interest in opera led her to co-author four books on the links between operatic and medical history with her spouse, physician Michael Hutcheon. Dr. Hutcheon has supervised 66 completed doctoral dissertations and has also been active as a conference organizer with colleagues at the University of Toronto.

In addition to membership in the Order of Canada, Dr. Hutcheon has received the Molson Prize for social sciences and humanities, the Killam Prize in recognition of her academic career and the Lorne Pierce Medal, presented by the Royal Society of Canada to acknowledge achievement in critical literature. In 2000, she became the first Canadian woman to hold the position of President of the Modern Language Association of America.

Brandon University bestows individuals with an honorary degree based on significant service to the university community or society; excellence in professional life or public service; or advancement of knowledge through research or teaching. Each year nominations are received from within the BU community as well as from other supporters of the University.

On Convocation day 583 students will be conferred with degrees from the Faculties of Arts, Education, Health Studies and Science as well as the School of Music during two ceremonies.